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How I feel about second trimester pregnancy fitness

A Typical Week of Second Trimester Workouts

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I recently shared my favorite prenatal fitness resources, but I didn’t really talk about what a week of workouts looks like for me.  Prenatal fitness is honestly so interesting because it’s 100% dependent on the woman and her individual pregnancy.  What I share may be way too easy for some and a bit too much for others.

My biggest takeaway in my journey so far is to do what feels right to you.  If you need to slow down, slow down.  If you need to take a rest day, take a rest day.  If yoga and walking feel good to you, do that.  Don’t force fitness when you’re pregnant.  Instead, choose to stay active as much as possible and know that every little bit counts.  That’s my motto anyways.

Also, something obvious I should have expected is that as my body grows and changes so will my workouts.  I don’t know why I thought first trimester Par would be the same as second trimester Par.  Second trimester Par is definitely a lot slower, more tired, and easily exhausted.  And this is noticeably apparent during my workouts.  But every little bit counts, right?

How I feel about second trimester pregnancy fitness

Pretty much sums it up!

As far as my weekly workouts are concerned, I’m doing most of the same things I did in my first trimester and early in my second.  The only difference, like I said, is that I have to be more cognizant of my pacing and the duration of my workouts.

So the following 24 week snapshot is a typical workout schedule for me right now, as it’s both doable and challenging.  My biggest note here (and always) is to consult with your doctor prior to starting any fitness routine or changing your routine dramatically.  Also, ALWAYS listen to your body and stop when something feels off, and don’t forget to drink lots and lots of water – before, during, and after all workouts.

A Typical Week of Second Trimester Workouts 

Sunday – 30 minutes of intervals on the EFX machine  + a prenatal strength workout + stretching

Monday – 30 minute brisk treadmill walk with 1, 2, and 3 level inclines + stretching + extra movement throughout the day (intentional as I worked from home)

Tuesday – 20 minute prenatal cardio workout  + 20 minute prenatal cardio kickboxing workout

Wednesday – Rest day (aka wash my hair day)!  I find that it’s hard for me to fit in a morning workout along with washing/styling my hair. Therefore, I strategically pick my rest days to coincide with hair washes.  Win, win!

Thursday – 30 minute prenatal strength workout + stretching

Friday – 40 minutes of intervals on the EFX machine + stretching

Saturday – 30 minute steady state treadmill walk + 15 minute prenatal core workout + stretching

There you have it…a typical week of second trimester workouts.  Crossing my fingers and toes that the same fitness gods allow me to carry on with similar workouts in my third trimester!  Only 3 weeks away…ahhhh!

Written on March 24, 2017 Related:pregnancy, Workout

Pregnacy Fitness Mindset and Resources

Pregnancy Fitness – Mindset + Resources

written by Parita 9 Comments

Before I share the thoughts I’ve been holding in for weeks, I must preface this post with a clear disclosure.  I am NOT a medical professional or pregnancy fitness expert.  ALWAYS consult your doctor before engaging in prenatal workouts.  

With that out of the way, let’s begin!

Pregnacy Fitness Mindset and Resources

MINDSET

When it comes to my pregnancy fitness mindset, I have one goal and that’s to stay active.  Whether that means reaching my step goal outside of the gym, taking a 30 minute walk, or doing a strength routine, staying active is incredibly important to me.  And for once in my life, it isn’t for me (well, maybe a little bit!).  It’s mostly for my baby, as I truly believe my prenatal fitness only helps keep me and the baby strong and healthy.

With all of that being said, it’s incredibly important to listen to your body while exercising.  The moment I feel a little more out of breath than I’m comfortable with, I slow down or stop.  If I start cramping, I stop.  While it’s important for me to exercise 4-5 days a week, it’s not something I’m willing to risk my health or my baby’s health for.  There’s always time to get to work after July!

I’ve also read that a good prenatal fitness routine helps with labor (hopefully makes it a tiny bit easier!).  Even if 1% of what I’ve read is true, it’s enough to keep me sweating!

RESOURCES

YouTube and the gym in our building have been exactly what this mama-to-be needs to keep up with her fitness.  Because I’m not well-versed in pregnancy fitness, I prefer to rely on other people’s expertise as guidance.

My weekly workouts consist of some combination of the following – 35-45 minutes of wogging on the dreadmill/EFX machine, a YouTube cardio video, a YouTube strength video, and/or a prenatal strength workout via Pinterest.

Here are a few of my favorite YouTube prenatal fitness resources:

BodyFit by Amy – My favorite videos include the cardio, core, kickboxing, and strength (with weights).  And I basically love Amy – she’s so inspiring and encouraging!

Jessica Smith TV – The strength workout is no joke!  It’s only 20 minutes, but I was sore for two days.

Bollywood prenatal dance video – I like to combine this video with Amy’s strength workout or a Pinterest strength workout.  It’s only 15 minutes, but the dance moves definitely get your heart pumping!

Mumberry – This 8 part series (8 five minute videos) is an awesome overall fitness routine, and it’s also great when broken down into the individual videos, especially when you’re short on time.

My pregnancy fitness Pinterest board – I recently started this board and hope to add to it over the next few months.  There are some great routines out there!

Happy Friday, friends!

Your turn – what workout are you loving right now (pregnant or not)?

Written on February 10, 2017 Related:Fitness, pregnancy

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